Saint Louis University Cancer Center has employed social workers since its inception in 2002. The Cancer Center's Social Workers are committed to the diverse and multi-layered needs of those who are seeking cancer care, as well as their family, friends and caregivers.

When might a social worker be helpful?

When you are newly diagnosed, sometimes adjusting to this diagnosis requires additional support

When your diagnosis may affect your ability to work, care for your family or yourself and you need to consider Social Security disability, leave from work or life stage planning

When you or your family may be experiencing a lifestyle change due to your diagnosis, and you need to talk with someone

When a loved one has recently died

If you are a caregiver and you find yourself feeling overwhelmed and need some support on coping

If you are interested in completing an advance directive (also known as a health-care directive or power of over your health-care)

If your insurance company does not provide you with prescription coverage and you need financial assistance in paying for your medications

Meet Our Social Workers:

Rebecca Dougherty, MSW, LCSW, is a clinical social worker who has been with the University and the Cancer Center since 2001, with the creation of a cancer center. She received her MSW through the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University and continued her training in mental health and healthcare. Her experience includes working with adults and their families on coping with the complexities that is involved in receiving cancer care, as well as how to blend your post treatment life with your pre treatment life. As a clinician, she is available to work individually or with families. Additional duties include program development, grant writing, adjunct faculty and intern preceptor for MSW interns. To reach Rebecca, please contact, doughera@slu.edu or 314.268.7019.

Jennifer Dunn, MSW, LCSW is a clinical social worker who received her MSW through the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University. She completed her internship training through the Cancer Center in 2007. Her clinical experience includes adult and pediatric hospice and palliative care, bereavement counseling, helping children and adults cope with the journey through cancer treatment, working as part of an interdisciplinary team to best coordinate care, individual counseling and support group facilitation. Jennifer is available to meet individually or with families to assess needs and provide support. To reach Jennifer, please contact jdunn5@slu.edu or 314.268.7020.